Tameside man raises safety concerns over gas pipe installation

A Tameside resident has raised concerns over what he describes as a “potentially hazardous” gas pipe installation in his home, following work carried out by Cadent.

Andrew Whitaker says the workmanship is “highly questionable” and believes the changes have created a safety risk for his daughter, who has special needs.

Mr Whitaker explained that the pipe, now protruding from the wall at a 90° angle in the corner of a room, was previously concealed within a storage trunk. That trunk, he says, was used to store heavy items such as VCRs and hard drives.

“It is unacceptable that these pipes were deemed safe when they were previously concealed within a storage trunk,” he said. “Had these items been placed on top of the exposed pipes, the consequences could have been severe. Cadent’s assertion that the installation was safe at the time is simply not credible.”

Mr Whitaker argues that exposing the pipe has made it more dangerous, especially for his daughter. “If she were to sit on the pipes, she would be exposed to a serious risk,” he said.

He believes the previous setup - where the meter was located in the porch - was “far safer” than the current arrangement.

Cadent, according to Mr Whitaker, has said the responsibility for rerouting the pipes now lies with him, something he rejects. “The current situation is a direct result of Cadent’s initial decision to conceal them within a storage trunk,” he added.

Mr Whitaker says he intends to pursue the matter with Ofgem and notes that his Facebook post on the issue has sparked local discussion.

Cadent have been contacted for their right of reply.